Described as a comedy of manners, without the manners, God of Carnage opened to a slew of positive notices on Broadway March 22 after a successful London run where it earned the Oliver Award for Best New Comedy. Playwright Christopher Hampton penned the translation. Michael Gow, the award-winning artistic director of the Queensland Theatre Company, will stage the Australian production, which will premiere at the Queensland Theatre Company's Cremorne Theatre (May 4-June 6) before arriving at the Black Swan's Playhouse Theatre (June 13-28).

The Australian cast includes Andrew Buchanan, Jodie Buzza, Benj D'Addario and Veronica Neave.

Press notes for the Australian production read: "Little Ferdinand has whacked his playmate Bruno with a stick, breaking two teeth. Now it's time for the adults to intervene. Michel and Veronique are genial hosts. Alain and Annette are gracious guests. But passions are seething beneath the benign exterior, and it's not long before the thin veneer of civilised politeness starts to crack."

Designing the production are set and costume designer Robert Kemp and lighting designer Bernie Tan. The Australian production is presented by arrangement with Broadway and West End producers David Pugh and Dafydd Rogers.

French playwright Reza won the 1997 Olivier Award and the 1998 Tony Award for Art, and has also penned Life (x) 3.

For further information, visit QueenslandTheatreCompany, or BlackSwan.